Modular Switch Unit for Endoscope Operation Section Adaptability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional endoscope operation sections have a common basic structure that does not cater to the specific needs of different diagnosis and treatment departments, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs due to the fixed arrangement of operation levers and switches.
Innovation Solution
A switch unit is designed with a tactile switch, signal transmission cable, and a formed part on the endoscope operation section, featuring a switch fixing portion, cable fixing portion, and a circuit that connects these elements, allowing for a more versatile and cost-effective configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a common basic structure is adopted for all endoscope operation sections, then manufacturing cost is reduced and production is simplified, but adaptability to different diagnosis and treatment departments deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The operation section is divided into a standardized base structure and modular functional components (operation levers, switches, buttons) that can be independently selected and configured. This segmentation allows different combinations of components to be assembled on the same base structure to meet the specific needs of different diagnosis and treatment departments, thereby achieving both cost efficiency through standardization and adaptability through modular configuration.
2Ease of manufacture
If the arrangement of operation levers and switches is fixed in a common basic structure, then manufacturing is simplified, but operational efficiency for specific departments deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The operation section employs a dynamic configuration system where operation levers, switches, and buttons can be positioned at various locations on the operation section exterior according to departmental requirements. This dynamic arrangement capability allows the control interface to be optimized for each specific application, improving operational efficiency while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through the use of standardized mounting mechanisms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate components are used for switches and operation elements, then functionality is enhanced, but device complexity and part quantity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention employs universal mounting structures and standardized connection interfaces that can accommodate multiple types of operation elements (switches, buttons, levers) using the same base mechanisms. This multi-functionality approach reduces the number of specialized components needed, as a single mounting system can support various operational functions, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining enhanced functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
A switch unit includes: a tactile switch; a cable which transmits an operation signal generated when the tactile switch is operated; a formed part where a fitting engagement portion which is disposed on an operation section exterior member at a predetermined position, a recessed surface which is formed on a side of a first end portion with respect to the fitting engagement portion and where the tactile switch is mounted, a cable fixing portion which is disposed on a side of a second end portion which is a side opposite to the first end portion with the fitting engagement portion positioned between the first end portion and the second end portion and to which the cable is connected, and a circuit which electrically connects the recessed surface and the cable fixing portion to each other and transmits an operation signal generated by the tactile switch to the cable are formed.